| Member Since | Name | Years of Service | Div/Bureau |
| February 21 | Cindy Hoffland | 30 | Real Estate |
| October 21 | Linda Hanafeld | 27 | Waste Water |
| October 21 | Mike Vollrath | 27 | Waste Water |
Otis, Keith
OMRO
Keith Otis, age 69, passed away Saturday, November 20, 2021. He was born April 29, 1952 to the late Jack and Theresa Otis.
Keith loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching wildlife outside his living room window. He went deer hunting every November and enjoyed fly fishing trips to Colorado. After graduating from UW-Stevens Point, Keith worked for the Department of Natural Resources as a Fisheries Biologist until his retirement.
Keith is survived by his sister Kathy (Dick) Sommers; nephew Michael Sommers; niece Melissa (Dustin) Teske and grand-nephews: Robin and Teddy Teske; as well as numerous friends and relatives.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.
Although we appreciate the support, our family respectfully asks that you refrain from sending flowers and memorials for Keith.
Wendler, John G.
COLEMAN
Ritland, Donald M.
MADISON
Donald Ritland grew up on a farm in the Mauston/Elroy area. His family had a successful farm and honey business. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force when he was 18, and served his country at Whiteman Air Force Base. After serving his country, he graduated from the UW-Platteville, with a degree in engineering. He married Joanne Wolseth and raised four sons, Marc, Paul, Eric and Todd Ritland, in Oregon, Wis.
Donald was a classically trained accordion player, and played throughout southern Wisconsin, at churches and other gatherings.
He was also a member of the Sons of Norway in Stoughton, Wis.
He enjoyed a 35-year career with the State of Wisconsin, with the Department of Natural Resources.
He especially enjoyed spending time at Wisconsin State Parks, and passed on his love of the parks to his family.
October 2021
Linda Hanafeld decided to retire in February of 2017 with 26.5 years of state service with WDNR. During her career she served as a Wastewater Specialist in the Northern Region, a Solid & Hazardous Waste Specialist, as well as a a hydrogeologist in the South Central Region and a RR Team Supervisor in SCR until retirement.
October 2021
Mike Vollrath retired in February of 2017 after a 26 1/2 year career with WNDR spending most of his career in the Wastewater program. In his last position, he served as a Wastewater Supervisor stationed in Eau Claire.
Our Special guest speaker for the October meeting was Bette Duff.
Leith, Dennis A,
MINOCQUA
Dennis (Denny, aka Butch) A. Leith, age 72, passed away on Sept. 17 due to complications of Parkinson’s Disease. A loving son, husband, and father, Denny lived for most of his life in the Minocqua area. He was born in Antigo WI to Patricia (Gustafson) and Leslie Leith, and he married Virginia (Ginny) Shaker in 1979.
A graduate of Rhinelander High School and Michigan Tech University, Denny worked for most of his career at the DNR, retiring as Forest Superintendent of the Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest. Over his years in forestry and recreation, Denny received many awards, most notably property manager of the year and the lifetime achievement award. His motto at work was to always leave things better than he found them, and, in the vast majority of cases, that’s exactly what he did.
Denny was also very active in the community: a charter member of Ascension Lutheran Church, a long-time coach of various youth sports, a school board member, a member of the Ascension Caring Committee, the organizer of a dedicated breakfast group, and a member of the Kiwanis Club. He was known for his ready smile and willingness to help, often going far beyond expectations.
Perhaps his most incredible achievement was the way he dealt with his disease. After an almost 20-year challenge with Parkinson’s Disease, Denny remained positive and hopeful. His courage and grace while dealing with many health issues were inspirational to many.
Denny loved many activities, including hunting near his beloved cabin, camping, visiting national parks, and almost any outdoor activity. However, he loved nothing more than his family.
His family and friends will dearly miss Denny, including his wife, Ginny, of St. Germain; his children, Jon (Maggie) of Lake Tomahawk, and Andy (Kelly) of Oshkosh; his grandchildren Thomas, Elle, Blake, and Kaylee; his sister, Phyllis (Gary) Stone; his sister-in-law Kathy Leith; and a wide circle of friends, including former colleagues, classmates, hunting companions, support group members, church members, and so many others. Lee Calvey of Minocqua was a close friend during many of Denny’s later, most challenging years.
Denny was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Susan; and a brother, Thomas.
The family thanks the staff of Ascension Lutheran Church and Pine Crest for their love and care.
The family also plans to make a donation in Denny’s name to the Wisconsin Parkinson Association wiparkinson.org Denny was a co-founder of the area Parkinson’s Support Group, which has helped many over the years.
A celebration of life will be held at Ascension Lutheran Church in Minocqua on Friday, Oct. 1st with visitation from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and a short service at 3:00 p.m.
For online condolences, please visit www.nimsgernfuneral.com
Schram, Steven T.
WASHBURN
Stephen Thomas Schram, 70, formerly of Gladstone, Michigan, and
currently a resident of Washburn, Wisconsin, and Agate Harbor, Michigan,
passed away unexpectedly, August 2, 2021, on an adventure he was
thrilled to be part of, at Isle Royale National Park, in Michigan.
Steve, was born in Escanaba, Michigan, to Richard and Dorothy (Hill)
Schram on August 12,1950, and was a 1968 graduate of Gladstone High
School. He went on to attend Northern Michigan University where he
received a Bachelor of Science Degree, and then to Central Michigan
University where he received a Masters in Outdoor Recreation and Field
Biology. It was at CMU where he met his wife of 45 years, Ann Vivian, of
Laurium, Michigan.
Steve worked as a fisheries biologist for the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources for 33 years, retiring in 2009. His work in fisheries
management focused on northern Wisconsin and Lake Superior. Later in
his career he became the Lake Superior Fisheries Supervisor. A few of the
fisheries habitats he managed with his fisheries “team,” were in the Brule
River, the St. Louis Bay estuary, the Apostle Islands and Chequamegon
Bay. Steve was a former member of the Wisconsin Chapter of the
American Fisheries Society, served on the Lake Superior Technical
Committee of the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, and mentored many
fisheries graduate students from the University of Wisconsin at Stevens
Point.
After DNR life, a former runner for over forty years, Steve became a USATF
Certified Master Official working at numerous midwestern and national
meets. He was thrilled to be chosen as a volunteer for one of the past
USA Olympic Trials, in Eugene, Oregon. He was a gifted author, creating a
trilogy for elementary school children about two fish who live in Lake
Superior and travel the Great Lakes. He was passionate about Great Lakes
preservation and wanting kids to learn what is happening underneath the
water, and why they should care. Steve’s passion lives on in his writing.
Steve will be remembered as a person who was thoughtful, adventurous,
appreciated planet earth, lived his faith, and so much more.
Steve is survived by his wife Ann (Vivian) Schram of Agate Harbor,
Michigan and Washburn, Wisconsin. His children Benjamin (Sarah) of
LaPointe, Wisconsin, and Molly (Patrick) Isaacson of Eagan, Minnesota.
His grandchildren, Winter Schram, Sawyer Schram, and Samantha
Isaacson. His sister Susan (Dale) Jamison of Rapid River, Michigan. HIs
brother Jeffrey (Mary) Schram of Rapid River, Michigan. Sister-in-law Gail
(Don) Frantti of Laurium, Michigan. Many other relatives and friends.
On September 11, 2021, Rayford Ray will officiate at a private family
celebration of Steve’s life. Relatives and friends are invited to gather for
refreshments at Memorial Park, a place Steve loved all year around, in
Washburn, Wisconsin, from 2:30 pm - 4 pm the same day.
Steve’s family would like extend their gratitude to the Isle Royale National
Park Service staff, the EMT’s, Nicole the ER Nurse, Captain John Kilpela,
those who brought Steve back to the mainland, and all others, whose
names we don’t know, who helped. Thank you to the Keweenaw County
Deputy Aaron Hainault. Ann will never forget you. We would also like to
thank Aspirus Hospital in Calumet, Dr. Saeed, Dr. Jan Heikenen, Judy
Pruner, and Joe Panijan from the Erickson, Crowley, Peterson Funeral
Home.
Per Steve’s wishes, people may donate to the CMU Biological Research
Station at Beaver Island, Michigan ( Address: Central Michigan University,
Carlin Alumni House, Attention: Morgan Hales, 524 E. Bellows, Mount
Pleasant, Michigan 48858) Or the NMU Women’s Track and Field Program
(NMU Foundation-Track and Field Memorial Gift for Stephen Schram, 1401
Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855).
Willihnganz, Paul
WAUNAKEE/WESTPORT
The world lost a beautiful soul on July 25, 2021when Paul Willihnganz, of Waunakee, passed away at home surrounded by his family.
Paul was born on December 6,1944 in Iron Mountain, MI, to Sylvester and Beatrice Willihnganz. Paul graduated from Beaver Dam High School and attended UW Whitewater, “the Harvard of the Midwest” as he liked to call it. He married the love of his life, Terri (Cloyd) Willihnganz, in 1965. Together they raised four children, Wendy, Tim, Heidi, and Heather and they were blessed with 6 grandchildren: Kayla, Tyler, Morgan, Addison, Meg and Owen. He worked for the Department of Natural Resources in Human Resources for 35 years and retired on his 55th birthday.
Paul will be greatly missed for his sense of humor and warm & caring personality. A man of routine, Paul loved his daily reading of the paper, answering questions on his favorite show, Jeopardy, and watching the news. Paul’s other interests included cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, refinishing furniture, mall walking, Culver’s malts, and spending time with his family which often included sharing his wealth of knowledge of history and current events.
He is survived by his four children, Wendy (Kent) Eilenfeldt, Tim Willihnganz, Heidi (Mike) Ableidinger, and Heather (Chad) Wagner; six grandchildren Kayla (Michael) Eilenfeldt, Tyler Eilenfeldt, Morgan Ableidinger, Addison Ableidinger, Meg Wagner and Owen Wagner; and his three brothers, Dave (Sally) Willihnganz, Steve (Jan) Willihnganz and Tom (Melodie) Willihnganz.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Beatrice Willihnganz, his wife, Terri Willihnganz, and his niece, Stephanie Willihnganz.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church located at 5460 Mary Lake Road Waunakee on Wednesday, August 4th at 11:00am. Msgr James Gunn will officiate. Friends may call the church from 10:00am until the time of Mass.
Memorial contributions can be gifted in Paul’s name to the Carbone Cancer Center or a charity of your choice.
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Turnout at a recent Eau Claire area DNR retirees regular Wednesday morning breakfast was pretty good so Bruce Neeb forwarded us a photo of the group. left to right: Bruce Neeb, Bob Sloan, Bill Krochmalski, Jack Daniel, Paul La Liberte, Jim Boettcher and Scot Ironside. Greetings from Eau Claire! |
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Berndt, Harold 'Hal'
TOWN OF NEWBOLD
Harold “Hal” Berndt, age 93, of the Town of Newbold passed away Monday, July 5, 2021 in the comfort of his home. He was born November 20, 1927 in Wausau, WI to Edwin and Bertha (Nimz) Berndt.
Hal graduated from Wausau High School in 1945 and immediately joined the Navy at age 17. He served as a Motor Mechanic 3rd Class on the USS Micka, DE during WWII.Upon completion of his time in the Navy, he pursued his Forestry degree at the University of Michigan where he earned his degree with distinction in June, 1950.He married Lucille “Lu” Tanner from Ogdensburg WI on June 24, 1950.
Hal went to work for the Wisconsin Conservation Department as a forester/photo interpreter in Tomahawk in 1950. In 1953 his career with the State of Wisconsin took him to West Bend where he worked until 1955, he then moved to Rhinelander as the acting Supervisor of the American Legion State Forest and was the manager of Hugo Sauer Nursery until 1970. After a short three years in Woodruff as Area Director of Resource Management for Oneida, Forest, and Vilas counties, he returned to Rhinelander in 1973. He then served as Asst District Director for the North Central District until his retirement in 1987. He spent his entire 37 year professional career working for the Wisconsin Dept of Natural Resources.
Hal was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rhinelander. He served as Council President, Youth Director for 14 years, Sunday School teacher and Superintendent, and was a member of many various boards and committees.
Hal’s community activities include coaching many youth sports teams, including Little League and Babe Ruth baseball and grade school basketball. He was an early supporter of the Rhinelander Ice Association and coached Squirts, PeeWees and Bantams youth hockey for over 20 years. He initiated the Kiwanis ‘Learn to Skate’ program, instructing many skaters for over 19 years.
Hal was an original member of the board of directors for the Camp 10 Ski Area and served on National Ski Patrol. Hal enjoyed skiing slopes with friends and family anywhere from Camp 10 to the Colorado Rockies.
Hal was a long-time member of Kiwanis. He served as president of the Rhinelander Kiwanis Club and Lt Governor of Kiwanis 25th District. He was also the recipient of the Kiwanis Hixon Award, the highest award for individual service. Other leadership activities include member of the Rhinelander Union High School Board of Education, 1968-70, and was a member of the Town of Newbold Planning Commission. Hal and Lu volunteered at the Rhinelander Logging Museum and delivered Meals on Wheels for many years.
An early hobby was flying. He obtained his pilots license in 1947 and used a plane to court Lucille. He logged many solo hours in the air, especially over Rib Mountain. When Hal was not working or volunteering, he could be found golfing, playing tennis, skiing, hunting grouse, fishing bass, planting trees and logging his property, as well as spending time in his workshop. Hal and Lu enjoyed travelling within all 50 States. And they especially treasured spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Hal is survived by his four children: Luan Dudley of Rhinelander, Julie Berndt of Rhinelander, Marti (Tom) Franti of Lincoln, NE, Terry (Dawn) Berndt of Rhinelander, 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, and his brother Donald of Woodruff.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lu Berndt, brother Chuck and infant brother Ronald Berndt.
The family would like to thank Senior Heart Home Care for their loving care of our dad. Their care was always very personal and sincere. A special thanks to Wanita Cook and Tina Bishop, his Guardian Angels.
Visitation for Hal will be held on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Carlson Funeral Home and from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. A complete notice will follow in the River News and at www.carlsonfh.com.
You may leave your private condolences for the Berndt family at
Glodoski, Lawrence P. 'Larry'
HAYWARD
Lawrence P. "Larry" Glodoski, age 60, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 13, 2021 at his residence in Hayward, WI with his wife Mary at his side. He was born on February 13, 1961 in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Donald Richard and Eleanore Louise (Kropp) Glodoski. He was united in marriage to Mary Alice Nepper on March 3, 1984.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Alice Glodoski of Hayward; his children, Michael (Whitney Stoker) Glodoski of Menomonie, Cheryl "Rosie" (Michael) Gates of Milwaukee, Anthony "Tony" Glodoski of Hayward, James (Ulises Rangel) Glodoski of Austin, TX and Katherine "Katie" Glodoski of Denver, CO; his grandchildren, Leo, Aldon, Olivia, Spencer and Sasha; his siblings, Martin (Cindy Huebner) Glodoski of Hayward and Penny (Joe) Bloechl of Milwaukee; his mother-in-law, Cynthia Nepper of Wisconsin Rapids; his beloved cousin and kidney donor, Kay Glodowski of Tomahawk; and many nieces, nephews, brother and sister in laws and dear friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated privately and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to… Gift of Life Transplant House 705 2nd St SW Rochester, MN 55902 or Regional Hospice Services and Palliative Care 15910 W Company Lake Rd, Hayward, WI 54843
Please leave your condolences for the family online at:
Solheim, Stanley Robert
MADISON
Stanley Robert Solheim, beloved husband of Joey and loving dad to Heather and Dawn, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021, at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg, Wis., at age 82. He will be remembered for his kindness, many friendships, enthusiasm, creativity, humor, and lifelong love of the outdoors.
Born on March 17, 1939, in Madison, Wis., to Stanley Oliver Solheim and Mildred Naomi Wickham, Stanley always loved celebrating his birthday with the Irish, yet was very proud of his Norwegian-Swedish ancestry. In the 1950s, he was a bugler in the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps under the direction of CH Beebe, traveling to Washington, D.C., to perform when the Scouts won the national title.
He joined the Merchant Marines after his junior year at Madison West, sailing to LeHavre, France, and coming home in the fall with many great tales. Stanley (then known as Bob) graduated in 1957, attended UW, and made his way west to study forestry at Montana State University and Olympic College, Wash. One of his forestry school memories was working solo as a fire spotter on a remote fire tower, walking miles to it on a deserted fire trail. His concern for environmental issues started with these outdoor experiences.
In Madison, Stanley worked at DNR in resource planning, starting a long, fulfilling career with the State of Wisconsin. Bicyclists today should be grateful for his work developing the Rails to Trails program in Wisconsin, the Elroy-Sparta bike trail, and the first Wisconsin bicycle maps. He served many years on the Governor's Bicycle Council and was a lifelong supporter of safe, accessible bike trails. Over his career with the state, he worked for Department of Development, estimating state printing and working as liaison with state printers. While working for tourism, he organized and managed state photo files, using many that he had taken while traveling around the state. Finally, Stanley was appointed Director of the Wisconsin Film Office, promoting the state as a great place for film and commercials, helping production companies find locations and access permits, and bringing the occasional famous actor to his beloved state. He loved his work, had the ability to make every job more interesting, creative, and fulfilling, and was always proud of his career accomplishments, making many friends along the way.
In 1973, Stanley bought acreage south of Madison in the Town of Dunn, building a log house from Vancouver cedar with help from his buddy, Ray Mueller. Situated on a drumlin between two huge bur oak trees, the house became his pride and joy, a work in progress for years, and ultimately a welcoming home for the rest of his life. The beautiful rural property, with farmland, woodland, and marshland, stimulated his interest in rural preservation; he was fortunate enough to be elected to the Dunn Town Board, where he spent 32 years serving local interests. Stanley was immensely proud to be on the board when they fought and won against the Libby Landfill, a huge county landfill potentially sited at the edge of Lake Kegonsa. He was also proud of his part in the board's comprehensive work for land use planning and Purchasing Development Rights programs. He also served many years on the Oregon Fire/EMS Board. He was also a longtime member of Luther Memorial Church in Madison.
Retiring in 2005, Stanley stayed active with fishing trips, traveling, hanging with his friends on Fridays at the Essen Haus, and joining the digital world to stay connected with pals via FB and email. He baked excellent bread, refining his technique for 40 years and constantly trying new varieties and methods; he was an adventurous cook and made the best crepes ever. He was an Amazon Prime shopper par excellence, loving all cool gadgets and kitchen gizmos. A natural at making friends, Stanley continued to expand his circle at Pinnacle water classes, keeping in touch with pals both old and new despite his numerous health challenges. We will all miss his generous, giving spirit and great smile!
Stanley married first wife, Mary Leibel, in 1965, having two daughters, Heather Marie Solheim (Brad Zwettler) and Dawn Louise Solheim (Merton Wall). He married Mary Josephine Reynolds in 1979, and for over 40 years they filled their home with family, friends, dogs (many of them his beloved Hungarian Vizslas), cats, and assorted farm animals. He leaves a sister, Bette Squier; nieces, Heidi Kraft (Mike) and Stephanie Squier (Chad Alberg); sister-in-law, Nancy Reynolds; and brother-in-law, Logan Hurst.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 25 at 2 p.m. at the TOWN OF DUNN BURYING GROUND, corner of Sandhill Road at County Highway B, Oregon, WI 53575, immediately followed by a gathering at the DUNN TOWN HALL, 4156 County Highway B, McFarland, WI 53558.
Memorials may be made in Stanley's name to Groundswell Conservancy at groundswellwisconsin.org
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Marty, Leonard H.
BELLEVILLE
Leonard H. Marty, age 96, passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2021, at Girlie's Manor in Mount Horeb. He was born on Dec. 18, 1924, in Pine Bluff, Wis., the son of Leonard and Caroline (Brink) Marty. While growing up Lenny attended Belleville High School and graduated from Mount Horeb High School in 1942. He then served in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1945 and 1946. On June 28, 1947, he was united in marriage to Audrey Westby at the Zwingli United Church of Christ-Mount Vernon. Lenny had worked for the Mount Vernon Telephone Company, Gisholt, Sub-Zero, and the Wisconsin DNR, from where he retired in 1987. He had also owned and operated Marty's Bar in Mount Vernon for many years. Lenny was a member of the Mount Vernon Sportman's Club, American Legion Post 385 in Verona, and Zwingli United Church of Christ-Mount Vernon. He had helped organize the annual fast-pitch softball tournaments in Mount Vernon and served on the First UCC Consistory in Belleville. Lenny also enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing, along with going out to supper clubs, dancing, and playing euchre.
Lenny is survived by his daughters, Cheryl (Ronald) Schneider, Kathy Sies, and Patti (Gary) Best; grandchildren, Staci Beckman, Todd (Jessica) Schneider, Nathan (Shana) Sies, Jon Sies, Amanda (Paul) Nemec, and Justin Best; and great-grandchildren, Owen, Jillian, Cooper, Abigail, Calin, Camren, and Lainey. He is further survived by a brother-in-law, Ralph Westby; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Audrey; granddaughter, Jennifer Schneider Crubaugh; son-in-law, Edward Sies; sisters, Marie Viney, Amanda Hankel, and Ann Vollenweider; and brothers, Joseph, Woodrow, and Edwin Marty.
Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 13 at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME, 109 Greenway Cross, Belleville, Wis., with Pat Pluss officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 11 a.m. until time of services on Saturday, March 13, at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME in Belleville. Please follow the current mask and social distancing guidelines. "You Bet."
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com
Pryga, Chester, 'Chet'
BLACK RIVER FALLS
Chester “Chet” R. Pryga, age 78, passed away at his home on June 1, 2021. He was born March 28, 1943 to John and Regina (Szydlowski) Pryga in Wausau, WI.
Chet graduated from Mosinee High School in 1961. Having a passion for the outdoors, he relocated to Fort Collins, CO to study Forest Management at the University of Colorado. After earning his degree, he returned to Wisconsin and worked for the4 DNR for over 30 years.
Chet is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joanne; son, Mike; daughter, Stacy (Casey) Abbott; grandchildren, Brandon, Joshua, Tianna, Connor, and Carter; brother, John Jr. (Barb) Richard; sister, Laura (John) Seidschlag; brother-in-law, Wally (Jeri) Biumenstein; sister-in-law, Jean (Sherman) Marcis; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and his father and mother-in-law.
A mass of Christian burial will be at Guardian Angels Parish at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (507 Main St. Black River Falls, WI 54615) Tuesday June 8, 2021. Father Emmanuel Famiyeh will be officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Mosinee Cemetery in Mosinee, WI. Friends may call on family at the visitation from 10-11 at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials will go to the Food Shelf food panty in Black River Falls.
The Buswell Funeral Home of Black River Falls is serving the family, (715) 284-2231. On-line condolences may be offered at www.buswellfh.com
Awve, Curtis 'Curt'
MADISON
Curt Awve, age 67, of Madison, passed away on Friday, April 30, 2021, at Bay Harbor Assisted Living. He was born on Jan. 23, 1954, in Milwaukee, Wis., the son of Vernon and Delores (Adamski) Awve.
Curtis is survived by his wife, Susan; brother, Craig (Nancy) Awve; two nephews, Andrew (Annie) Awve and Mike (Connie) Awve; and two great-nephews, Levi Awve and Asher Awve.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 4 p.m. on Monday, May 10, 2021. A visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Due to COVID-19 guidelines, social distancing and face masks are required.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Carpenter, Terry
WAUTOMA
Terry D. Carpenter, age 75, of Wautoma, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, Tuesday morning, March 30, 2021 at his home.
He was born November 27, 1945 in Burlington, Wisconsin the son of Lawrence and Arlene (Rockow) Carpenter. On September 7, 1966 he married Marilyn L. Fedran in Wautoma and later raised four wonderful daughters, Brenda, Lisa, Teena and Heather.
Terry was a graduate of Wautoma High School. He later served his country in the United States Navy from 1965 until his honorable discharge in 1971. Terry began working for the Department of Natural Resources as a fish technician until his retirement in 2003. Terry will be remembered for his quiet and humble personality, dedication to family and friends and enjoyment of the outdoors. His greatest love was his family.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn L. Carpenter, Wautoma; his loving daughters, Brenda (Craig) Ramczyk, Wild Rose, Lisa (Joe) Niebauer, Greenville, Teena (Chad) Krause, Almond, Heather (Rob) Lichtenberg, Minocqua; his grandchildren, Chyan, Cierra, Cole, Evan, Henry, and Owen; his siblings, Judy Caswell and Buzz Carpenter ; further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many special friends.
To honor Terry’s wishes a private family service will be held. Stahl Funeral Services are assisting the family with arrangements, www.stahlfuneralhome.com
Our family would like to say a special thank you to the wonderful people who assisted us in our time of need: Jeff Stahl, E. Kreczner, B. Wenzel, Z. Gunderson, K. Koch, and of course Thor.
Fernholz, Willis B. 'Willie'
LACROSSE
Willis B. Fernholz of Onalaska went to eternal life on March 20, 2021.
He was born in Arcadia, WI to Bernard and Clotilda “Sally” (Haines) Fernholz on March 22, 1931. He graduated from Arcadia High School and went on to Winona State University, earning a degree as a biologist. He married Charlotte Jane Schaffner on October 22, 1955.
Willie worked for the Wisconsin DNR for 35 years, earning the Upper Mississippi River Conservation Committee Award for his achievements in preserving the river. He was instrumental in purchasing land through the DNR, preserving it for public use. Willie proudly served our country in the U.S. Army and the Wisconsin National Guard for over 40 years, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major. Willie took much pride in his children, teaching them to hunt, fish, camp, canning vegetables from his garden and making his own venison sausage.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte; son, Harley; and his siblings, Cleon "Choker" Fernholz and Carol Zepp. Survivors include his three daughters, Valerie (Joel) Behrens, Wanda (Ken) Thorson and Kate (Mark) Squier; four grandchildren, Brandon (Jodi) Behrens, Breanna (Scott) Martin, Libby (Erik Kahl) Thorson and Ben (Ashley) Squier. He is further survived by six great grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 23rd, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1031 Main St., in Onalaska, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Msgr. Steve Kachel will officiate. Burial, with military honors, will follow at the Onalaska City Cemetery. Guests are asked to where a mask or facial covering and to be mindful of social distancing guidelines while in attendance. Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no luncheon served.
Spangberg, John Edman
MARENGO
John Edman Spangberg, age 71, of Marengo, WI passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2021 while collecting maple sap at his cabin in Drummond. He was born October 25, 1949, the son of James and Marjorie (Gerjets) Spangberg. He grew up in Siren, Hayward, and Ladysmith Wisconsin. From a young age, John loved hunting, fishing, and being in the woods.
John graduated from UW-Eau Claire. He went on to spend his professional career protecting the environment. John worked for state, county, and tribal government. He worked for the Oneida Tribe for ten years during the 1980s when tribal natural resource departments were being organized. Then he joined the WI Department of Natural Resources, serving in Spooner, Cumberland, and Ashland until his retirement in 2012. He was dedicated to protecting habitat and clean water for the benefit of all people.
John was immensely proud of his son Codey James May, U.S. Air Force, currently serving in Korea, who is carrying on the family tradition of military service.
In 1996, John married the love of his life, Nancy Jean Larson, in Spooner. They shared their outdoor interests and outlook on life. While in Spooner, they were involved in the Kinship program and developed deep relationships with their Kinship kids that continue to this day. In 2003, John and Nancy moved to their farm in Marengo.
John and good friends Dennis and June Johnson, built the cozy Spangberg cabin on the family land in Drummond with their own hands, using lumber from the woods. There, John enjoyed deer season, maple syrup season, and many gatherings with family and friends around the campfire. John was very funny and entertaining with his endless puns, plays on words, and booming voice. John also helped Nancy with her horses, calling himself the “unstable boy.” John was dedicated to Nancy and the rest of the family, helping take care of his mother at her home in Ladysmith until she moved permanently to Texas in 2019. John was also an avid golfer and loved sports. John’s goal was to hunt, gather, and grow as much of the family’s food as possible. John read widely, especially about history, and he loved his dogs.
John served on the Marengo Town Board after the flood of 2016, working with FEMA and other agencies on the response.
John is survived by his loving wife Nancy Larson of Marengo; son Codey May, USAF Korea; mother Marjorie Spangberg of Dallas TX; sister Donna (Edward) Mullenix of Dallas TX; brother James (Anne Marie Crawley) Spangberg of Bradenton FL; nieces and nephews: Daryl Anderson, Matt Anderson, Amanda MacNeven, Megan DeRaleau, Ben Pearce, Zachary Pearce; and his special dog TwerpE.
John was preceded in death by his father James Spangberg, and his sister and brother-in-law Joyce and Dale Zimmer.
A celebration of life will be held this summer in Drummond. Memorials may be made to a land trust or environmental organization of your choice.
The Roberts Funeral Home in Ashland is assisting the family with arrangements.
Vande Hei, Gerald L. "Jerry"
SUN PRAIRIE
Gerald L. "Jerry" Vande Hei, 88, of Sun Prairie, peacefully passed away at Agrace Hospice, Fitchburg, on March 10, 2021, surrounded by his children. He was born March 6, 1933, in DePere, Wis., the son of Martin and Mae (Secor) Vande Hei. Jerry's childhood was spent enjoying the outdoors and hunting with his dad, Martin, and best friend, Jim Doyle. Jerry graduated Abbot Pennings High School in 1951. He started his collegiate career at St. Norbert College, where he studied for two years before enlisting in the U.S. Army. Jerry served two years as a corporal stationed in Dongducheon, Korea. He then returned home and attended Michigan Tech University where he graduated from their School of Forestry in 1958. Jerry was also inducted into MTU's Environmental Science Alumni Honor Academy in 1995.
Jerry married Patricia A. Simonar on Oct. 11, 1958, at St John's Cathedral in Green Bay. They were blessed with four children, Todd, Ann, Tim and Nick. They lived throughout Wisconsin due to Jerry's career with the State of Wisconsin Forestry, including Gordon, Black River Falls, Shawano, and finally settling in Sun Prairie in 1973. Jerry retired in 1995 as the Chief of the Forest Management Division of the State of Wisconsin DNR.
Jerry was an avid sportsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He loved to spend as much time as he could at his cherished cabin, "Van's Camp," up north in Phillips. He shared his love for the outdoors with his kids and grandchildren, and they created many memories together as a family. One of Jerry's proudest moments was the black bear he harvested by the cabin. Jerry also had many memorable trips fishing in Canada, as well as pheasant hunting in South Dakota.
Jerry was a member of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Sun Prairie, Wis., always attending Mass with his wife, Patty.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of over 62 years, Patricia; and his children, Todd (Laura) Vande Hei, Ann (Rob) McIntyre and Nick (Julie) Vande Hei. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren, Jenny Hembree, Steven and Olivia Vande Hei, Andrew, Molly and Abby McIntyre, Tillie, Mary and Ray Vande Hei; and great-grandsons, Levi, Jameson and Lukas Hembree. He is further survived by his sisters, Doris Scholtz and Jean Bourgeois; and many nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Tim Vande Hei, on April 10, 2020; his parents; his brothers-in-law, Tom Schoultz and Grant Bourgeois; and his best friend, Jim Doyle.
Jerry was a loving husband, father and grandpa. He was the kind of person that offered sound advice, always encouraged and loved his family with his whole heart. He would call each of his kids every week to "check in" and make sure everyone was safe. He was centered by his strong Catholic faith and love for his country. He will be deeply missed and cherished by his family. In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to Agrace Hospice, agrace.org/donate or 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS AND MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 227 Columbus St., Sun Prairie, on Wednesday, March 17 at 11 a.m. Father Thomas Kelley will preside. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass on Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at Sacred Hearts Cemetery.
During the 70’s I was a DNR wildlife researcher stationed at the Nevin Fish Hatchery, just south of Madison. The old office barracks building that I shared offices with other DNR employees also quartered a small, white-bearded aquatic biologist named Warren Churchill. Warren was an extremely high-strung guy, who made several trips daily to draw his many cups (2 cents per cup) of coffee from a large pot. In order to keep track of everyone’s consumption totals, we all agreed to put a mark next to a long list of drinkers next to the coffee pot. One day I noticed that Warren had consumed 22 cups of Joe!
In early April, Warren made the unfortunate choice of going along with 2 other men to net fish from Lake Wingra, a 336-acre lake close to the hatchery.
What happened next was described by Wisconsin State Journal reporter Doug Moe:
“ On April 5, 1973, a boat containing three Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources marine biologists overturned while they were inspecting fish nets in Lake Wingra. Gusts of cold wind caused waves that swamped the boat.
It was 3:15 in the afternoon. The water temperature was 41 degrees. The two younger men clung to the boat while helping their older colleague, Warren Churchill, 57, stay afloat. Somehow, they weren’t spotted for more than an hour. Two women walking in Vilas Park called police, who logged the call at 4:39, dispatched a police boat, and alerted paramedics.
Lindauer and his fire rescue colleague, Ralph Chamberlain, responded to the Knickerbocker Street boathouse. The police boat had just landed. One of the scientists, Churchill, was in especially bad shape.
“They thought he was gone,” Lindauer told me. “He had no vitals.”
Churchill was covered with blankets. Lindauer took a small mirror and placed it under Churchill’s nose. “He was fogging it,” Lindauer said. “It was faint, but it was there.” They administered oxygen and transported him to University Hospital, arriving just after 5 p.m.
A nurse took Churchill’s temperature and gasped. The thermometer registered 65 degrees. Survival with a body temperature below 70 is extremely rare, and in the next hour, Chamberlain’s temperature slipped to 61.
“Believe me, he was cold,” Lindauer told Reader’s Digest. “Just holding him sent a chill through me.”
Dr. Marvin Birnbaum led the medical team that managed to raise Churchill’s temperature and pull him through. Churchill’s wife sent a letter that appeared in the State Journal 10 days later, thanking everyone involved in the rescue by name and noting that the day after the rescue, her husband turned 58 . “
Reporter Moe did not state that Warren was unconscious when he arrived at the hospital. His heart was kick-started by an injection of Curare, a south American drug used as a stimulant by indigenous people. This did the trick; Warren was awakened.
The final upshot to Churchill’s ordeal was that he was invited to appear as a contestant on the old, “To Tell The Truth” TV program. The object of this TV show was to have 3 contestants appearing before a panel of 5 celebrities. If the panel failed to guess the identity of the contestant who was telling the truth, he or she would win a cash prize.
Each of the 2 robust-looking younger contestants claimed (in this case) to be the coldest man alive. Warren was the smallest and oldest-looking participant. The panel guessed that the other 2 men were telling the truth.
Warren was telling the truth and won the prize!
Morey, Dale Paul
POYNETTE
Dale Paul Morey, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Dekorra Township on Sunday, March 7, 2021.
Dale was born on May 24, 1934, in Spooner, Wisconsin, the son of Dane and Frances (Schnagel) Morey. He was first employed in Shell Lake as Under Sheriff of Washburn County which was a ground-breaking experience in the field of Law enforcement that continued through his career. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Dale met the love of his life, Mary Conley, at Whispering Pines Resort near Minong, WI, where they worked together and formed a life-long bond. They were married on June 5, 1959, and were fortunate to raise five wonderful children.
He tried his hand in the newspaper business. While he was the Editor for the Turtle Lake Times, he was offered a position as the Wisconsin State Conservation Warden. In 1964, he was stationed as a Field Warden in Appleton. In 1972, Dale and the family moved to Black Earth after he was promoted to the position of State Boating Law Administrator in the Department of Natural Resources where he was employed for 18 years. He had the opportunity to be in on the ground floor of the development and advancement of the State and National Boating Safety Program.
Dale retired from the State in 1990 and launched a consulting career that was an offshoot of his State career. During retirement, Dale developed and taught boating accident investigation for 11 years in every State in the Union and was an active boat accident consultant in boating accident litigations. Dale enjoyed downhill skiing, tennis, bowling, hunting, fishing and traveling, as well as gardening, landscaping and spending time with his children, grandchildren and black labs.
He is survived by his five children, Dana (David) Sanft, Debbie (Steve) Marx, Dawn (Paul) Fassbender, Paula (James) Whitaker, Dane (Tammy) Morey; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; two brothers, Robert and Ben Morey; and nephew, Bob Morey.
Private services will be held, with Military Honors provided by Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for donations to be made in Dale’s memory.
Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette is assisting the family.
Lubinski, Julia A.
DE PERE
Julia A. Lubinski, age 60 passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay. She was born on April 16, 1960 in Green Bay, the daughter of the late Jerome and Irene (Foelker) Lubinski. She graduated from Green Bay Southwest High School and furthered her education at UW Oshkosh for business. She started her career for the State of Wisconsin with the Dept. of Natural Resources at Peninsula State Park and later transitioned working for Wisconsin Dept.
of Children and Families in Green Bay. Julia enjoyed time spent with family up at Kelly Lake. Julia attended all of Greg and Sue’s family events and was loved as the “Honorary Aunt” by their many nieces and nephews. She loved cheering on her nieces, Rose and Grace, at their different sporting events and dance recitals. Julia enjoyed her family trip to Florida with her nieces to Disney. She was known for traveling out west with friends, South Dakota and California were her most recent. She was very happy to be able to see Rose and Kolten exchange vows last May. Julia was an active participant of book clubs and game nights with friends and family and a member at New Hope United Methodist Church.
Julia is survived by one brother, Greg (Sue) Lubinski of Green Bay, two nieces: Rose (Kolten) VanElzen and Grace Lubinski of Green Bay; step-mother, Bernice Lubinski, step-sisters: Janet Peterson and Beth Peterson; she is further survived by many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Paul and infant brother, Brian.
Friends and family may visit on Saturday March 13, 2021 at Newcomer Chapel, 340 S. Monroe Ave, Green Bay from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm with a service to follow at 3:00 pm with Pastor Rick Haberland. Private entombment will take place at Allouez Catholic Mausoleum.
The family would like to extend a thank you to The New Hope Ladies and Ruth, Melanie, Cindy, Jody, Patsy, Tena, and the countless other friends many of whom we might not have known who helped her during her cancer treatments.
Online condolences may be made at www.newcomergreenbay.com
Tvedt, Dean Ellis
MOUNT HOREB/VERONA
Dean Ellis Tvedt passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at the age of 96, with his family by his side. Dean was born on a farm just west of Mount Horeb on July 13, 1924, to Melvin and Sadie (Luhman) Tvedt. When he was in his teens they moved to another farm in the township of Cross Plains.
Dean attended Mount Horeb High School where he acquired a lifelong passion for photography after signing up for a camera club. Garfoot Creek flowed through the Tvedt farm property. A joint fish-hatching project with some neighbors and the local conservation warden (Andrew Sampson - a frequent fisherman on the creek) sparked another lifelong interest: conservation. Dean took pictures, wrote articles and did copy-pasting for Commonwealth Telephone Company of Wisconsin in Madison. He was drafted and served in Japan with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where he also did photography. Upon his return he successfully combined his two interests when he was hired by the Wisconsin Conservation Department (now DNR), where he worked in their Bureau of Information & Education, Photo Section. There he started shooting movies and moved on to television where he coproduced “Wisconsin Outdoors” with Wilbur Stites and Staber Reese. He also worked with a crew for a Walt Disney film entitled “Flash, the Teenage Otter.” Dean spent the rest of his career with the Conservation Department and the DNR, retiring in 1987. His films and especially his photos are used to this day in publications, calendars, articles and the like.
Dean was married to Lois Jacqueline (Mueller) Tvedt for 69 loving years. They spent many wonderful summers at their second home in Sister Bay, Door County. He is survived by Lois; two sons, Richard (Kathleen McCool) of Madison and Roly of Verona; seven grandchildren, Ryan, Teighlor, Baileigh (Kiel Stampfli), Teeghan, Brigham, Eudora and Nina; and one great-granddaughter, Blakelyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Sadie; and by his eldest sons, David and Randy.
The family will hold a private memorial gathering Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at the Gunderson Camacho Funeral Home in Mount Horeb.
There will be a celebration of Dean’s life held sometime this summer at Mount Horeb United Methodist Church where he worshiped. Any cards may be sent care of Roly Tvedt: 500 S. Main St., Verona, WI 53593. Please, no gifts. Memorials may be made to the Natural Resource Foundation of Wisconsin in memory of Dean Tvedt.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Paske, Phillip A. 'Phil'
PEMBINE
Phillip Paske, age 92, of Pembine, passed away at home on Tuesday January 12, 2021. He was born in Portage, WI on October 4, 1928; son of the late Albert and Lucille (Koppe) Paske. Phil graduated from Portage High School in 1946. He honorably served his country in the Army from 1950 until 1952. Phil started working as a DNR Officer in Portage area before moving to Pembine in 1957, where he met the love of his life, the former Clara Joyce Stevens. The couple was united in marriage on December 7, 1958.
In 1970 the couple moved to Wautoma and then in 1974 to Tomahawk for the next 20 years before retiring back in Pembine. Although they never had their own children, they had many foster children that they cared for. Phil enjoyed sturgeon fishing, loved gardening, deer hunting and bee keeping. He was a charter member of the local Rescue Squad and Fire Department and was a Board member of Grace Lutheran Church and taught Sunday School as well.
Phil is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Joyce; four nephews and a niece: David (Nancy) Paske, John Paske, Julie (Edward) Collins, Jeff (Debra Melvin) Emery, and Joel (Beth Siebers) Emery; great niece, Layne (Jim) Locke; brother, Milton Paske; and special daughter, Randee (Jordan) Cottam. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Stovall.
Visitation for Phil will be held at Roubal Funeral Home on Monday January 18, 2021 from 10:00 am until time of his service at 11:00 am. with full Military Honors provided by Pembine American Legion Post #461. Rev. Dwaine Sutherland will officiate. Burial will be in Pembine Cemetery this spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church in Pembine.
Roubal Funeral Home of Wausaukee is assisting Phillip’s family.
Visitation: Monday Jan 18, 2021, 10:00a.m. until 11:00a.m. at the Roubal Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday Jan 18, 2021, 11:00a.m. at the Roubal Funeral Home
